From splash fun to drifting off with your thoughts, there is plenty of water based fun coming to Reading this month.

For one day only, Water Fest will be taking over the town centre on Saturday, June 11 with fun activities on offer along the Kennet and in Forbury Gardens.

This is the 27th year the annual event has been held in Reading and for 2016, visitors will be able to take a historic tour of the town and see a photographic exhibition focusing on the Kennet and Avon Canal, plus they can take part in a programme of themed events as part of Reading’s Year of Culture.

What activities will there be for the family?

There will be a host of children’s activities and entertainment on offer in the gardens, including free face painting and balloon modelling.

A mini festival of water curated by live artist and sculptor Amy Sharrocks is also taking place as part of Reading’s Year of Culture.

Events include:

Drifting, where two boats will be available all day for people to drift on the canal - 11am to 4pm

Reading Water installation under Forbury Bridge - this will be on display until June 30

Water workshops for children in the Forbury Bandstand - midday to 4pm

Water Fight in Forbury Gardens - this will take place in three sessions from 3pm for three to six years, seven to 11, then ages 12+.

A Message to You by Plan B which involves text messages being shouted across the river at The Oracle from midday to 3pm

What activities are on offer?

The celebration of Reading’s waterways, organised by Reading Borough Council in partnership with the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust, gives visitors the opportunity to view decorated canal boats, visit craft and community stalls, take a trip on a narrowboat and enjoy live music.

Chestnut Walk will host stalls offering a range of hand crafted items such as jewellery, prints, jams and toys while Riverside Walk will be lined with stands run by local charity and community groups.

The Kennet and Avon Canal Trust will be running relaxing journeys on its narrowboat throughout the day.

A selection of different boats moored along the length of the site will also take part in three parades throughout the day and will then be judged in the best dressed boat competition.

Forbury Gardens will be offering a mix of traditional and contemporary music and dance too.

A new feature for this year is being hosted by local photographer and historian Chris Forsey.

He will be offering two circular history walks and a photographic exhibition featuring some of Chris’ images of the Kennet and Avon Canal in the Turbine Room in Blake’s Lock.

Bel & The Dragon in Blake's Lock will be holding a barbecue all day and hosting the Steve Morano Band throughout the afternoon.

Special Water Fest inspired storytelling will also take place on a boat courtesy of the Novella Project, which offers young authors the chance to have their work published.

Water Fest is also linking up with Reading Green Fest which will offer visitors more attractions to visit in Town Hall Square and St Laurence Church in Friar Street.